A. JABBAR DENTAL CLINIC KARACHI

Sadia Khan

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ZAKA CLINIC GULBERG LAHORE

Saad Ullah Siddiqui

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Time For Men To Share The Burden Of Pregnancy

Introduction

A fast-growing population is one of the greatest challenges currently faced by Pakistan. Increasing poverty, food shortage, health challenges, depletion of natural resources, and overcrowding are just some of the problems associated with overpopulation. According to the 2017 Census of Pakistan, with a population of more than 207 million, the country is the fifth most populated country in the world<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. Therefore, effective birth control methods are a need of the hour to prevent the risks associated with overpopulation.

However, the use of contraception is largely stigmatized in Pakistan due to various reasons. As per the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS), the current contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) is only 34%<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. Moreover, the use of contraceptive methods among men is extremely low. Thus, resulting in the burden of pregnancy and contraception lying largely with women. This could probably be due to a lack of awareness among men regarding various contraceptive methods that are readily available. Raising awareness about these methods is the first step in ensuring that the financial and emotional burden of <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/how-to-practice-safe-sex">safe sex</a> is shared among both partners in a couple.&nbsp;

Almost 200 years ago, humans invented the world&#39;s first condom, and for a long time that was the greatest discovery in the world of contraception. However, scientists soon discovered methods specifically designed for women that could aid further in population control. Several female contraceptive options ranging from hormonal pills to invasive tubal ligation were introduced. However, each of the proposed methods comes with its side effects. Contraception methods have been widely politicized and various speculations exist regarding the reasons behind the disparity among male and female contraceptives. However, it is important to mention that male contraceptive methods are generally safer than their female counterparts, which is why in recent years significant work has been done to search for effective male contraceptive options. This shift in tide is also perpetuated in part by the increasing awareness among men and their willingness to use contraceptives.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Understanding Male Contraceptives

Currently, two widely acceptable male contraceptive methods exist: condoms and the invasive vasectomy.

&nbsp;

<h5 dir="ltr">Condoms</h5>

These are a form of barrier method and stop the sperm from entering and fertilizing the egg. Along with being an effective and inexpensive birth control, condoms also prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, incorrect use is associated with a high failure rate, and they can easily break or get damaged. In Pakistan, condoms are the most used form of contraceptive method, with a frequency of 65.5%<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;

In recent years, the Pakistani government has stepped up its social media campaigns in a bid to educate the public regarding the use of condoms and other effective family planning methods. This is aimed at controlling the growing population by promoting birth spacing and awareness of women&#39;s fertility. Doorstep availability and affordable prices have significantly increased the use of condoms among the general population.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, misconceptions about condoms and other family planning methods still need to be overcome.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h5 dir="ltr">Vasectomy</h5>

Also called male sterilization, the surgical procedure has been in use since the 1970s. The procedure involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens that carry sperm to the urethra. As a result, the semen is devoid of sperm and the egg cannot be fertilized. It is not easily reversed; therefore, it is mostly advised to men who are sure of not wanting children or who believe their family is complete.&nbsp;

With a success rate of 99.85%, it is the most reliable contraceptive option. Moreover, compared to tubal ligation in women, it is less invasive, has fewer risks, and has a quicker recovery time. However, only 2.4% of men around the world have undergone the procedure<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>. In Pakistan, the prevalence is only 0.4%<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;

The lack of knowledge regarding vasectomy plays a major role in its low acceptance. Moreover, a majority of men hold the view that it leads to impotency or reduces sex drive. However, a recent study has found that men in Pakistan are becoming more accepting of vasectomy and recognizing their role in sharing the responsibility of family planning<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

While female birth control pills have been around for more than 50 years, researchers have only recently started looking into pills for men.&nbsp;

In 2019, a team of scientists conducted a clinical trial for a male birth control pill among 82 healthy men<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.&nbsp;They administered dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU) in varying doses over a period of 28 days. The two active hormones, progestin, and modified testosterone, helped suppress levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the study participants. Thus, suppressing sperm production without causing symptoms of low testosterone levels.&nbsp;

Although the study did not measure sperm count, the pill was found to be safe, even in high dosages. The team is currently conducting a longer trial to assess the drug&#39;s effect on sperm production and any long-term effects on the body.&nbsp;

However, men are often hesitant to use hormonal options due to the presence of adverse effects. Therefore, a team at the University of Minnesota have developed a non-hormonal male contraceptive pill. According to early results from a trial in mice, the contraceptive was 99% effective at preventing pregnancy<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>. Moreover, it had no obvious side effects in the mice.

Called YCT529, the non-hormonal pill works by targeting a protein called the retinoic acid receptor alpha (RAR-&alpha;). Through inhibition of this receptor, the retinoic acid in the body is unable to cause cell growth and differentiation, both of which contribute to sperm formation. As a result, the contraceptive helped cause reversible sterility in male mice.&nbsp;

Researchers now plan to conduct human trials for the compound. However, it is too early to tell whether the results in mice will also translate to humans.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Conclusion

Pakistan faces several challenges to the acceptability of various family planning methods. These range from religious and cultural beliefs, low literacy levels, misconceptions about side effects, lack of knowledge regarding various options for men and women, and reluctance to adopt a method. According to a study from Karachi, fear of side effects was the most common reason for low prevalence among users<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>.&nbsp;

Several trials are currently underway to look for safe and effective male contraceptive pills. However, it can take years till a pill is available in store. Even then, its availability will not matter until there is a change in beliefs regarding family planning.

Despite the safety and availability of male contraception, men are reluctant to use the contraception methods due to various reasons ranging from misconceptions about side effects to a lack of knowledge about safe sexual practices.&nbsp;

Therefore, there is a need for campaigns aimed at educating men about the importance of adopting contraception methods.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Key Points

<ul>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>A growing population poses several challenges to a country&#39;s health and economic stability.</li>
	<li>Effective implementation of family planning measures can help control overpopulation.</li>
	<li>In Pakistan, use of contraceptives is highly stigmatized due to various reasons.</li>
	<li>While several advances have been made in the search for female contraception, men have only been presented with two options: condoms and vasectomy.</li>
	<li>Condoms are the most commonly used form of contraception; however, there is a need to raise awareness on its correct usage.</li>
	<li>Vasectomy is the most effective male contraceptive method, but the lack of education and widespread myths regarding its side effects has resulted in a low frequency (0.4%) of the procedure in Pakistan.</li>
	<li>Recently, scientists have begun testing various hormonal and non-hormonal compounds as male contraceptive pills.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>In 2019, a team of scientists tested varying doses of dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU) among healthy males and found it was well-tolerated. They are now planning long-term clinical trials to test the compound&#39;s effect on sperm production.</li>
	<li>Recently, a team at the University of Minnesota developed a non-hormonal contraceptive pill. They tested the compound in mice and found it to be 99% effective, with no observable side effects. The team now plans to conduct human trials of the compound.</li>
	<li>The development of male contraceptive pills can help men share some of the burden of contraception and pregnancy.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

[1] Statistics, P. B. o., 2021. Brief on Census - 2017. [Online].

[2] Meherali, S., Ali, A., Khaliq, A. & Lassi, Z. S., 2021. Prevalence and determinants of contraception use in Pakistan: trend analysis from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Surveys (PDHS) dataset from 1990 to 2018. F1000 Research, Volume 10.

[3] Shattuck, D., Perry, B., Packer, C. & Quee, D. C., 2016. A Review of 10 Years of Vasectomy Programming and Research in Low-Resource Settings. Global Health, Science and Practice, 4(4), pp. 647-660.

[4] Siddiqui, M. et al., 2020. Prevalence and Predictors of Contraception Usage in Karachi, Pakistan. Cureus, 12(10).

[5] Hatesh, H., Maheshwari, B. K., Shah, S. Q. & Kumar, D., 2020. Males’ perception and motivation for Vasectomy. Pakistan Journal of Public Health, 10(4).

[6] Thirumalai, A. et al., 2019. Effects of 28 Days of Oral Dimethandrolone Undecanoate in Healthy Men: A Prototype Male Pill. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 104(2).

[7] Society, A. C., 2022. A non-hormonal pill could soon expand men’s birth control options. [Online].

[8] Bibi, S., Memon, A., Memon, Z. & Bibi, M., 2008. Contraceptive knowledge and practices in two districts of Sindh, Pakistan: A hospital based study. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Associatio, 58(5).

Nimrah H. Sattar

AL SHIFA CLINIC KARACHI

Syed Intisar Hussain

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I'm A Heart Patient - Are Oral Contraceptive Pills Safe For Me?

Dialogues concerning sexuality, reproductive health, contraception, and sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs) are limited worldwide. One of the biggest reasons for these decreased dialogues is the fear of spreading indecency among the younger population. Unfortunately, the failure to discuss these topics has had a great impact on public health and led to an increase in the prevalence of abortions and STIs, such as HIV, in the country. The current abortion rate in Pakistan stands at 50 per 1,000 women aged 15-49 years; one of the highest in the world<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

The lack of education on such topics also means that both men and women are generally unaware of reproductive health issues. Moreover, the lack of knowledge and awareness of contraception increases the risk of teenage pregnancies, unplanned pregnancies, and unsafe abortions. Thus, resulting in poor health outcomes for both mother and child.&nbsp;

As per estimates, only 35% of married women of reproductive age in Pakistan, use some form of contraception<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. Condoms are the most common method of contraception, followed by pills and withdrawal methods<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. Although the use of oral contraceptive pills has increased over the years, there is still poor knowledge of the drug&#39;s effects. This lack of awareness can lead to the misuse of these medications, leading to adverse effects in at-risk individuals for e.g. women with existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) are often at a higher risk of these side effects.&nbsp;

Across Europe and the world, CVD accounts for a majority of deaths in women, while contrastingly in Pakistan, men and women are at an equal risk of coronary artery disease<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. Due to the high prevalence, it is important that women are aware of the risks associated with using oral contraceptives with pre-existing heart conditions.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are often the most popular option among users. They range in effectiveness from 89-99%. They are of two types: combined estrogen-progesterone and the progesterone-only pill. While both are a form of birth control, they can also be used for treating medical conditions such as endometriosis, <a href="https://www.merisehat.pk/disease/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos">polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)</a>, and other menstrual disorders.

&nbsp;

1. Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC) - These contain a combination of the hormones, estrogen and progesterone that help prevent ovulation; thus, preventing pregnancy. The pills may contain the same dose of the hormones (monophasic), or varying weekly doses of both or either component (multiphasic). A single packet typically contains 21 pills that are taken over a 28-day period and 7 placebo pills for menstruating days. Although they have a generally safe profile, nausea, vomiting, weight gain, fluid retention, and bloating are common side effects of drug use. However, in some cases, they can also cause other severe side effects, such as:

<ul>
	<li>Increased risk of blood clots</li>
	<li>Hypertension</li>
	<li>Increased risk of stroke and myocardial infarction</li>
</ul>

These drugs are usually contraindicated in smokers and those older than 35 years of age.

&nbsp;

2. Progestin-Only Pill (POP) - Unlike COCs, these only contain a synthetic progestin. The lack of estrogen reduces the risk of adverse side effects such as thromboembolism, stroke, or cardiovascular diseases. However, it can cause breast tenderness, heavy bleeding, mood swings, anxiety, and weight gain among users. POPs are typically prescribed to women who cannot have COCs or estrogen-containing compounds.

3. Emergency Contraception Pill (ECP) - Also called the morning-after pill, it may contain higher doses of the hormone estrogen, progestin, or both. They help delay ovulation or fertilization and are commonly used following unprotected sexual intercourse or a condom breakage. However, they are not meant for regular birth control.

Understanding The Correct OCP For Heart Patients

Doctors usually prescribe contraceptive methods based on a patient&#39;s health and preference. As per current guidelines, doctors must weigh the risks and benefits for each patient prior to selection of contraception.&nbsp;

Women with cardiac disease are not only at a higher risk of maternal death during pregnancy, but also complications such as stillbirth, preterm delivery, or intrauterine growth restriction. Due to the high incidence of unplanned pregnancies, it is important that these women are counselled on effective and safe contraceptive options. Moreover, they are more likely to develop adverse effects to oral contraceptives. Therefore, caution is practiced when prescribing them pills or other contraceptive options.&nbsp;

OCP use among smokers older than 35 years of age is associated with a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular side effects such as deep vein thrombosis. As per estimates, such women have a ten-fold increased risk of myocardial infarction<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>. Therefore, women older than 35 are typically assessed for risk factors such as CVD, hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease prior to use.&nbsp;

Compared to non-users, combined oral contraceptive users have a much higher risk of myocardial infarction and stroke. Moreover, women with pre-existing hypertension have a 9-16% chance of exacerbation when using OCPs<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>.

&nbsp;

Ideally, contraception is meant to be safe, effective, and protect against sexually transmitted infections. However, no one method can guarantee all three.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Barrier Methods - These methods are all safe for cardiac patients; however, they have a high failure rate. Therefore, should not be prescribed in cardiac patients to avoid pregnancies.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill - Due to the estrogen component, COCs are associated with multiple risks to women with cardiovascular disease. Therefore, women with CVD risk factors and existing heart disease are not prescribed COCs.</li>
	<li>Progestin-Only Pill - In women with an increased risk of thromboembolism, POPs are usually the preferred option. They are generally considered safe for all CVD patients. However, they can interfere with warfarin metabolism and decrease its therapeutic role. Therefore, careful monitoring of INR is required in such patients.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Depo-Provera Injection - These injectable contraceptives last 12 weeks and are very effective. However, discontinuation causes a rapid return to fertility. Moreover, it can put patients at risk of ischemic heart disease.</li>
	<li>Mirena Intra-uterine Device (IUD) - Although extremely effective, its insertion can induce a vasovagal reaction in 5% of patients, and lead to a cardiovascular collapse<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. It is contraindicated in women with pulmonary vascular disease and those at high risk of endocarditis.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Hormonal Implants - Subcutaneous progestogen implants are highly effective and work as a form of sterilization. Moreover, they have no cardiac contraindications.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

According to the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS), the current contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) is only 34%<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>. There are several barriers to contraceptive use among Pakistani women of reproductive age. These range from religious factors, and lack of access to low socioeconomic status. Although oral contraceptive pills are commonly used as a form of birth control, there are a lot of misconceptions regarding infertility and weight gain that further limits their use.&nbsp;

The lack of dialogue around sexual and reproductive health has left a huge majority of Pakistani women unaware of their health condition and the best health options for their bodies. Moreover, in Pakistan, there is a high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among women. This puts them at an even higher risk of pregnancy complications; thus, emphasizing the need for better contraceptive methods for these individuals.&nbsp;

Currently, progestin-only pills and hormonal implants are considered the most effective and safe contraceptive options for women with CVD. However, newer formulations of oral contraceptive pills with lower overall risk are being developed. These are expected to help lower blood pressure in users and prevent weight gain.&nbsp;

For now, the best method is to weigh all benefits and risks associated with a particular method before use. Moreover, women should be counseled on the various options available to them and the adverse effects associated with these options.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>In Pakistan, only 35% of married women of reproductive age practice some form of contraception.</li>
	<li>The stigma surrounding sexual health has placed several barriers for women to access safe contraception methods in the country.</li>
	<li>The lack of awareness of various contraceptive methods has led to an increase in abortions and sexually transmitted infections among the younger population.</li>
	<li>Due to their overall safety profile, easy availability, and high effectiveness oral contraceptive pills are mostly prescribed to women. The two common oral contraceptives include the progestin-only pill and the combined oral pill.</li>
	<li>Despite the overall safety profile, OCPs can increase the risk of several side effects, especially among women with a cardiovascular disorder.</li>
	<li>Women with existing cardiac disease are at a higher risk of maternal death during pregnancy, and complications such as preterm birth, growth restriction, and stillbirth. Therefore, there is a greater need for safe and effective contraceptive methods for these high-risk individuals.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>COCs increase the risk of stroke, thromboembolism, and myocardial infarctions. Therefore, they are contraindicated in smokers above 35 years of age and women with CVD risk factors or existing cardiac disease.</li>
	<li>POPs and hormonal implants are generally considered safe and effective in cardiac patients.</li>
	<li>Newer contraceptive pills are being developed that are expected to have a lower overall risk for cardiac patients.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

[1] Siddiqui, M. et al., 2020. Prevalence and Predictors of Contraception Usage in Karachi, Pakistan. Cureus, 12(10).

[2] Mushtaq, K., Ashraf, M. & Thaver, I. H., 2020. Who are the women wishing to opt for contraception?. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 70(12).

[3] Jafar, T. H., Jafary, F. H., Jessani, S. & Chaturvedi, N., 2005. Heart disease epidemic in Pakistan: women and men at equal risk. American Heart Journal.

[4] Cooper, D. B., Patel, P. & Mahdy, H., 2022. Oral Contraceptive Pills. s.l.:StatPearls Publishing.

[5] Kaminski, P., Szpotanska-Sikorska, M. & Wielgos, M., 2013. Cardiovascular risk and the use of oral contraceptives. Neuro Endicrinology Letters.

[6] Hudsmith, L. & Thorne, S., 2007. Contraception in women with cardiac disease. Women's Health, 3(6), pp. 711-717.

[7] Meherali, S., Ali, A., Khaliq, A. & Lassi, Z. S., 2021. Prevalence and determinants of contraception use in Pakistan: trend analysis from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Surveys (PDHS) dataset from 1990 to 2018. F1000 Research, Volume 10.

Madeeha Syed

Your Body After Giving Birth

Overview

Post-pregnancy or postpartum is a crucial period. It&rsquo;s also known as the fourth trimester. This is when your body is <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/chronic-fatigue-syndrome">recovering from the fatigue</a> of pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the body goes through a lot of changes to accommodate your baby. The body eventually goes back to normal, but this can take a while.&nbsp;

Continue reading to find out more about some common changes that take place in your body, after you give birth. 
&nbsp;

Post-pregnancy or postpartum

During pregnancy, hair growth gets better and the texture of hair gets thicker. This is all thanks to the hormones that are active during that phase. However, post-delivery, this phase settles down and enters into a resting phase for about one to five months. Normal hair growth pattern usually returns six to 15 months after delivery. 
&nbsp;

Shoe surprise is pretty common after pregnancy. It is not just the midsection that gets affected. After a baby is born, your shoe size changes permanently. That is because during pregnancy women gain an average of 25-35 pounds which puts extra pressure on the feet. This pressure flattens out the arch in your feet which is the reason for extra inches in your feet. 
&nbsp;

Belly bulge is common after pregnancy. A lot of women expect that the belly will return to its normal size after birth. The upper portion of the uterus is at the level of your navel. Post-pregnancy belly returns to its normal size in about six to eight weeks. A good diet and exercise are the key to toning down your belly. Workouts focused on the core can show quick results. 
&nbsp;

A common expectation of most women is that the breast size will go up after giving birth and breastfeeding. Once you stop breastfeeding, however, the size goes back to what it was. In fact, in some cases, it goes a cup down. The main reason for the size to increase is that fat tissue in the breast is replaced by functional tissue. Once a woman stops breastfeeding, functional tissue depletes as it is no longer needed. 
&nbsp;

The first six months of the post-partum period are the recovery period. No matter how easy or smooth your pregnancy is, your body has gone through a lot of stress and trauma. It needs time to recuperate. Remember that every mom goes through a different experience and symptoms; hence, the recovery rate also changes.

Most of the symptoms, like sore nipples, backache, pain in the thigh area, etc., continue for more than a week. Other symptoms, like leaky breasts, can linger on for months.

In vaginal delivery, recovery timelines vary depending upon the kind of delivery. The soreness and perennial pain go away in three weeks. However, in the case of vaginal tear or episiotomy (incision made on the vagina to ease the delivery process), recovery can take up to six weeks.

If you have been delivered through c-section, it will take around three to four days in the hospital to recover. In about four to six weeks you can recover completely. 
&nbsp;

For the first 24 hours after birth, ice your perineum region. Sit in warm baths for 20 minutes to ease pain and avoid long periods of standing or sitting.

Ease pain and aches by taking hot showers and massages.

Do your Kegel exercises, to strengthen your pelvic muscles.

Keep up with your doctor appointments. It will help you stay on track. Your doctor can also notify you about your emotional well-being and help you with your new journey.

Ask your doctor regarding your workout plan. They can guide you about how and when can you exercise. It is a good idea to start by walking into your house and then gradually into the neighbourhood. Walking helps in recovery by improving blood circulation and toning muscles. 
&nbsp;

Bottom Line

Your diet after pregnancy shouldn&rsquo;t be very different from what you eat during pregnancy. Avoid processed foods. Focus on eating whole grains, high fibre foods, Omega-3 fatty acid-rich food, nuts, and fish.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Lean Meat: Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all crucial components of a breastfeeding mother&#39;s diet. Your infant receives calcium from breastmilk for the formation of bones. Consume foods high in calcium to replenish the calcium your body has lost. Include three cups of dairy in your diet each day.</li>
	<li>Pulses: These are a good source of protein and fibre. You can cook them with different seasonings to make them tasty and easy to eat. Pulses also prevent fat from accumulating in the body.</li>
	<li>Vegetables:&nbsp;These are low-calorie healthy food. They are rich in antioxidants and aid in losing weight. Spinach and broccoli are good sources of Vitamin A which is healthy for you and your baby.</li>
</ul>

Once the baby is born, you can resume most of the food you avoided during pregnancy. Include nutrient-rich foods like legumes, proteins, fibre, citrus fruits, and vegetables. Don&rsquo;t forget to keep yourself hydrated. You may consult a dietician and your doctor in designing your diet plan.

Namwer Rao

Humza Khizer

Baby Blues (Postpartum Depression): Is There A New Treatment?

The entire process of pregnancy is very rewarding, but what happens after you have delivered the baby? Your body that has gone through so many constant changes over the 9 months, reverses them all to get you back to normal. This process often leads to postpartum <a href="https://www.merisehat.pk/disease/depression">depression</a>.

About 11% of women in the United States suffer from postpartum depression (PPD).<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>&nbsp;PPD affects not just the life of the mother but also the infant. If left untreated, it can get worse and affect your spouse or other people close to you. So far, the treatment used for PPD has been very generic; similar to that of major depressive episode (MDE) consisting of conventional antidepressants like SSRIs, benzodiazepines, and tricyclic antidepressants. FDA has recently approved the first-ever drug targeted toward treating postpartum depression. 
&nbsp;

Understanding The Latest Treatment For Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is best explained as a worsened form of postpartum blues or baby blues. Baby blues are experienced a few days after delivery. Some new moms, however, experience a much more severe case of baby blues that can be classified as postpartum depression and it can go on for over a year.<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>&nbsp;PPD is characterized by:

<ul>
	<li>Feeling depressed and low</li>
	<li>Sleeping too little or too much</li>
	<li>Feeling tired all the time</li>
	<li>Doubting yourself as a mother</li>
	<li>Thinking that you do not want the baby</li>
	<li>Excessive crying</li>
	<li>Loss of appetite</li>
	<li>Anxiety and panic attacks&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby</li>
	<li>Unable to think clearly or make the right decisions</li>
	<li>Increased anger and irritability</li>
	<li>Overall reduced interest in everything</li>
</ul>

If you or anyone that you know are facing any of these symptoms, immediately contact your physician and get yourself screened through the Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). It is one of the most common and quickest screening tools with high accuracy and allows your physician to assess the situation better through the score.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A lot of factors contribute to postpartum depression.The biggest factor that is not only responsible for PPD but also for the baby blues is the drastic change in hormones. During pregnancy, your estrogen and progesterone levels are very high. As soon as the baby is delivered, these levels are dropped drastically.

Since estrogen is directly linked to increasing serotonin levels in our brain&nbsp;and progesterone is known for stimulating dopamine release, the decrease in the production of these hormones coupled with some underlying mental issues or previous history of depression or anxiety becomes the most common and the biggest cause of PPD.<a href="#accordion">[2][3][7]</a> 
&nbsp;

While screening of postpartum depression can be done by several tools that are used for Major Depressive Episodes (MDE), the most universally acceptable tool targeted especially for PPD is Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale or EDPS. EDPS is a 10-item questionnaire with a response score of 0 to 3. If the total score is over 12, then there is a need for further in-depth assessment of the situation and severity of the condition.&nbsp;

PPD is best diagnosed by your medical practitioner through regular visits. Your doctor asks a series of questions every few days to assess your mental health and well-being. Another way to differentiate PPD from baby blues is to ensure that the patient has at least 3-5 of the symptoms that make up PPD. The generalized diagnostic criteria used for PPD are similar to the one used for Major Depressive Episode (MDE). Immediate attention is recommended to avoid any worsening of the symptoms and from transitioning of PPD to postpartum psychosis. 
&nbsp;

So far, the treatment of postpartum depression is similar to that of conventional major depressive disorder. Special attention is paid to the excretion of the drug and the concentration of the drug removed from the body through breast milk.

The following antidepressants are commonly used to treat postpartum depression due to their low levels of excretion in breast milk, making it safe for use if you are a breastfeeding mother:

<ul>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Fluoxetine</li>
	<li>Paroxetine</li>
	<li>Sertraline</li>
	<li>Bupropion</li>
	<li>Amitriptyline</li>
	<li>Doxepin</li>
	<li>Desipramine</li>
	<li>Tranylcypromine</li>
	<li>Trimipramine</li>
	<li>Desipramine</li>
	<li>Paroxetine</li>
	<li>Escitalopram</li>
</ul>

These antidepressants come with some common side effects that include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sexual issues, diarrhea, blurry vision, weight gain, increased perspiration, etc.<a href="#accordion">[6]</a> 
&nbsp;

Brexanolone (under the brand name of Zulresso) got approved by the FDA as the first drug targeted toward PPD. Brexanolone is approved with a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) which means that it is currently a controlled medicine available through a restricted distribution channel to carefully assess the conditions of the patients throughout the treatment. The program is currently known as Zulresso REMS Program.<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>&nbsp;Currently, to get Brexanolone administered to you for treating your PPD, you are required to enroll in the Zulresso REMS program.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<ul dir="ltr">
	<li>
	<h5>Mechanism Of Action</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Brexanolone is a synthetic form of allopregnanolone. Allopregnanolone is a neurosteroid. Neuroactive steroids are a group of substances that change a receptor&rsquo;s response to a stimulus by binding to them.<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>&nbsp;Allopregnanolone is best understood as a metabolite of progesterone, which is a GABA-A receptor agonist. This means that progesterone is responsible for increasing GABA functions.

The exact mechanism of the drug and of allopregnanolone is still unknown. Their enhancement of the functions of GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) means that it will inhibit neuronal excitability by blocking messages that are sent to our nervous system with the help of certain stimuli. This not only aids in dealing with depressive triggers but also helps with anxiety.<a href="#accordion">[1]</a> 
&nbsp;

<ul dir="ltr">
	<li>
	<h5>Dosage And Administration</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Zulresso is administered intravenously. The dosage is determined by your doctor based on your weight and other factors. The drug is administered over a period of 2.5 days or 60 hours and requires constant monitoring due to the risk of unconsciousness.<a href="#accordion">[5]</a> 
&nbsp;

<ul dir="ltr">
	<li>
	<h5 dir="ltr">Adverse Effects</h5>
	</li>
</ul>

Since the drug is relatively new, there are a limited number of side effects reported so far. They include:

<ul>
	<li>Dry mouth</li>
	<li>Dizziness</li>
	<li>Flushed skin</li>
	<li>Losing consciousness</li>
</ul>

<h5 dir="ltr">Important!</h5>

FDA has advised to stop the treatment of Zulresso if more serious side effects occur that may include the worsening of PPD and suicidal thoughts especially in women under the age of 25. 
&nbsp;

Current research suggests that brexanolone may interact with other CNS depressants like opioids and benzodiazepines and increase the severity of the adverse effects with regard to sedation. Alcohol consumption is also not advised due to similar reasons.

During the clinical trials, patients who were taking antidepressants also showed a more severe case of sedation as compared to the ones who did not or were a part of the placebo studies. 
&nbsp;

Considering the rapid onset of action with brexanolone especially when compared to the long-term treatments offered by conventional antidepressants, it is believed that brexanolone can take over the go-to therapy for PPD. However, a much more convenient way of administration would be through oral pills instead of I/V. There are still many concerns left that can only be answered through long-term data in a lesser restricted environment as opposed to a clinical trial setting.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<ul>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Current antidepressant therapies employed for PPD are based on&nbsp;long-term treatment.</li>
	<li>Brexanolone&rsquo;s onset of action is fast and has shown significant improvement in women of all ages suffering from PPD.</li>
	<li>Some women under the age of 25 were observed to experience severe side effects that even led to the worsening of their PPD.</li>
	<li>The drug is still under strict observation with the help of the REMS program.</li>
	<li>Administration coupled with the duration over which it has to be administered can make it difficult to commercialize as compared to drugs that are available in the form of oral pills.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

[1] Allen B, Vespa PM. Antiseizure medications in critical care: An update. Curr Opin Crit Care. 2019;25(2):117-125

[2] ATP Science, 2021. HOW DOES PROGESTERONE CREATE A DOPAMINERGIC RESPONSE?. [Online] .

[3] Debra Fulghum Bruce, P., 2020. Postpartum Depression. [Online].

[4] Fala, L., 2019. Approved by the FDA Specifically for Postpartum Depression in Adults. [Online]

[5] Federal Drug Administration, 2019. FDA approves first treatment for post-partum depression. [Online]

[6] Fields, L., 2021. Which Antidepressants Treat Postpartum Depression?. [Online]

[7] Matthew Hoffman, M., 2021. Estrogen and Women's Emotions. [Online]

[8] Mayo Clinic, 2022. Postpartum depression. [Online]

Umna Salah

Getting Back To Working Out After Giving Birth

The weeks after one&rsquo;s delivery can be as stressful as they are joyous. Newborn babies need constant attention and it&rsquo;s difficult to take out time to care for oneself. When the baby is down for a nap, it&rsquo;s our chance to get some sleep too or catch up on chores. Naturally, there&rsquo;s very little time or mental space for fitness and physical activity. Plus, there&rsquo;s the physical exhaustion that comes with long nights and breastfeeding. 
However, taking care of our bodies is essential to recovering quickly from pregnancy and childbirth. Taking time out for fitness enables us to better manage the stressors that come with a newborn baby, both physically and emotionally. This, in turn, ensures that we are able to enjoy the joys of new motherhood as well.

<div>&nbsp;</div>

time to recover body

As a new mother, it&rsquo;s important to ensure that you are consuming all of the nutrients that are essential to your health and recovery. If you are breastfeeding, it is even more important that you consume a nutritious diet.&nbsp;

Try to include a good amount of protein in your diet, as well as good fats and essential fatty acids. Eating a sufficient amount of carbs will give you the energy you need to keep up with your baby. Make sure to include fruits and nutrients in your diet as they are an important source of <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/a-guide-to-essential-vitamins-and-micronutrients-and-should-you-be-taking-them">micronutrients and fibre</a>.&nbsp;

If you have a straightforward vaginal delivery, you can start with gentle movement in the form of short walks as soon as the day you deliver; however, you will have to wait till your epidural has been taken out. If you delivered via a caesarean or faced postpartum complications, you may have to wait a few extra days to give your body time to recover.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>Moderate Walking</h5>

Easy to moderate walking is the best way to start moving after childbirth. You can start with just 20 minutes a day and gently build up to half an hour over the course of four to six weeks. Consider breaking up your walks into several walks a day to avoid tiring yourself out and being able to fit them in more easily into your newborn&rsquo;s routine. You could start with two 10-minute walks a day, build that up to two 12-minute walks after a few days and so on. Walking burns calories, while also strengthening muscles and joints, and improving blood circulation. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Postpartum Exercises</h5>

Incorporate gentle postpartum exercises and stretches into your routine in the first few weeks after a delivery. There is a lot of information online about safe postpartum exercises. You can look some up and aim to do them for five minutes a day. YouTube videos focused on postpartum exercises can also be easy to follow along, and if you&rsquo;d like the opportunity to get out of the house, a postpartum exercise or yoga class might just be the thing for you. As with walking, start with just a few minutes a day and slowly build up as your body adjusts.

Your pelvic floor and core tend to be particularly weak after childbirth. Before you move onto high-impact exercises, it is important to build some strength in these parts of the body. You can start doing gentle pelvic exercises, like kegels and pelvic tilts in the first week after your delivery. Aim to do them for about five minutes at a time, up to three times a day. Again, there&rsquo;s no need to do long sessions and tire yourself out. Fitting in smaller movement sessions throughout the day will ensure that you are able to be consistent and don&rsquo;t end up pushing yourself too much.

About a month after childbirth, you can start exercising core exercises into your routine. Again, this also depends on what kind of delivery you&rsquo;ve had and whether you faced any complications during or after. Once again, incorporate a few minutes of core work into your daily movement sessions and break it up into two to three sessions a day.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>As A Rule Of Thumb</h5>

You should wait at least six weeks after childbirth to get into high-impact exercises. It&rsquo;s important to prepare your body in the preceding weeks and to also take it slow when you do start with higher impact movement. Make sure to consult your doctor and get their okay beforehand. Even at this stage, start slowly and listen to your body. There&rsquo;s no need to push forward from the get go. What&rsquo;s important is that you maintain consistency and build up in a manner that is doable for you. 
&nbsp;

It&rsquo;s easy to forget to take care of ourselves in the first few months after childbirth. But we need to remember that we need as much love and care as our newborn babies do. Being kind to yourself and patient with your body is especially important after a delivery. Remember, the healthier you feel, the better you&rsquo;ll be able to enjoy the time you get with your newborn!

Ayesha Binte Rashid

What To Do After Getting A Caesarean?

You&rsquo;ve had your baby, and you&rsquo;re ready to go home. But before you can leave the hospital, there&rsquo;s some post-delivery care that you should take care of. In this article, we&rsquo;ll cover caesarean section (C-section) aftercare, including when it&rsquo;s time to take your catheter out and when you&#39;re ready for discharge from the hospital.

&nbsp;

recovery after  a c-section

After you have a C-section, this is the most critical period. You might feel tired, emotional, or anxious about your baby or yourself. Be sure to:&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Make Time For Yourself And Rest

<ul>
	<li>Drink water</li>
	<li>Eat healthy</li>
	<li>Do light exercises only (such <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/how-walking-helps-you-think-bette">as walking</a>) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Take Care Of Your Wound And Stitches (If Applicable). You Need To

<ul>
	<li>Keep your wound clean and dry</li>
	<li>Wear comfortable maternity clothes that make it easy to get in and out of bed easily. Think loose fitting tops with leggings</li>
	<li>Avoid tight clothing, such as jeans or elastic waistbands, etc.</li>
	<li>Avoid heavy lifting or carrying heavy objects, etc.</li>
	<li>Speak to your doctor if you feel there is an infection developing in your wound area (this can happen on rare occasions) 
	 
	Ask for help from friends and family members when needed 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

You might feel weak and sore for a while after your surgery. Don&#39;t worry, it is normal! Moving around would help you feel better and get the blood flowing through your body again. You might want to ask someone to help with the lifting and carrying of heavy objects until you&#39;ve fully recovered from your surgery. 
&nbsp;

Here are some useful tips for moving around:

<ul>
	<li>Care For Your Incision: You&rsquo;ll likely be in the hospital for 2-3 days. During that time, your healthcare team would ask you to do a few things to help ensure you&rsquo;re on the right track.</li>
	<li>Keep Your Incision Clean And Dry. If needed, use pads or bandages.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Avoid Placing Hot Water Bottles or heating pads over your incision area because they could increase swelling and cause pain.</li>
	<li>Do Not Lift Anything That&rsquo;s Heavy during the first six weeks following your surgery. And even after that, if there&rsquo;s something you need to move, keep it light or, better yet, ask for help!</li>
	<li>Avoid Sexual Intercourse for six weeks after having a c-section (or until advised otherwise). This is to allow your uterus and vagina to heal well before you have another child vaginally.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>After The Period Of Six Months, you might resume intercourse as normal, but again, keep it light.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Stretching. It&rsquo;s a good idea to stretch your abdominal muscles and any other muscles that have been affected by the surgery.</li>
	<li>Breathing exercises. Use diaphragmatic breathing (also called belly breathing) to help relax your body and calm down after surgery.</li>
	<li>Pelvic floor exercises. They help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and support the uterus, bladder, and bowel function after pregnancy. They also improve sexuality for both men and women, increase energy levels (and thus productivity) and reduce lower back pain or sciatica symptoms by improving posture or alignment through strengthening these core muscles</li>
	<li>Walking is a great form of exercise during recovery time because it helps strengthen leg muscles while also building endurance, which is helpful if you have had stitches put in place during surgery! 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>If you notice any unusual bleeding, such as a sudden gush of blood, or if the flow of your postpartum discharge changes in colour or consistency</li>
	<li>If you experience pain or discomfort</li>
	<li>If you have a fever (above 100&deg;F) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: If you have questions about your recovery that aren&rsquo;t covered here, please ask your obstetrician or midwife.&nbsp;

If you&rsquo;re concerned about anything at all whether it&rsquo;s the way your belly feels after surgery (which, by the way, should feel like it has been run over by a truck!), whether there&rsquo;s an abnormal amount of blood coming out of your vagina, whether there are signs of infection (fever, chills), etc., go see someone right away.

It&rsquo;s better to err on the side of caution than risk an infection setting in that could lead to more problems later on down the road. And even though C-sections carry risks themselves (mainly related with anaesthesia), they&rsquo;re still safer than vaginal births when it comes down to actually giving birth itself. 
&nbsp;

Just sitting back and waiting for your body to heal would get you there. But you could be up and running and taking care of your baby with the right care in no time.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Take It Easy. It might be tempting to jump right back into your normal routine, but try to cut yourself some slack. Your body needs time to heal after having been through an invasive procedure like surgery.</li>
	<li>Don&rsquo;t Be Afraid of taking pain medication, if necessary. If soreness is keeping you from getting quality rest at night, talk with your caregiver about options for relieving this discomfort. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

C-section recovery is a process. You might not feel like doing much, but it&rsquo;s important that you get up and move around as soon as possible. The more your body moves around, the sooner it will heal!

How To Prepare For Giving Birth

If you&#39;re pregnant, you may be wondering what you can do to prepare for the big day. There are plenty of things that will help make your labour easier and keep your body healthy while it grows a baby. Here&rsquo;s my advice on how to boost your chances of having an easy and healthy childbirth experience. 
&nbsp;

prepare for the big day

One of the most important things you can do to prepare for childbirth is to get as much rest as possible. That&rsquo;s not just because it will make you feel better, but also because it will help your baby grow and develop.

Rest is especially important for pregnant women, who need plenty of sleep to meet their bodies&rsquo; demands for nutrients and energy during pregnancy. A baby needs that energy too! As long as there are no complications with your pregnancy or labour, it&rsquo;s a good idea to take lots of naps throughout the day, even if you don&#39;t feel tired. It will help keep both you and your little one happy and healthy in the long run. 
&nbsp;

Wear shoes that are comfortable and supportive, such as those that are flat or have very low heels. Good arch and ankle support is important for you to be able to walk in them. Your shoes should have a good grip on the floor so that you can walk safely while they are wet or slippery (e.g., when the floor is icy). 
&nbsp;

<ul dir="ltr">
	<li>Don&rsquo;t stand for long periods of time.</li>
	<li>Don&rsquo;t sit for too long.</li>
	<li>Don&rsquo;t cross your legs.</li>
	<li>Don&rsquo;t wear high heels. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Exercise can help you sleep better and help you cope with stress. Being physically active can help you lose weight, which has many benefits including an improved outlook and higher self-esteem (both of which will be handy during labour). It will also help you glow! 
&nbsp;

Kegel exercises are a type of exercise that strengthen the pelvic muscles. The pelvic muscles include pubococcygeus (PC) muscles and the urethral sphincter, which are responsible for contracting during orgasm (both women and men) and ejaculation in males, as well as when urinating or having bowel movements in both sexes. They also help control the flow of urine from the bladder, helping to prevent leakage from an enlarged prostate gland or urinary tract infection (UTI). Kegel exercises can help some women who have trouble with bladder control after childbirth. 
&nbsp;

Lie down on your back with knees bent so that your feet are flat on the floor and close together; keep arms at sides if comfortable or place them above head with elbows bent so they rest comfortably against ears if desired; relax all body parts except buttocks. Focus on relaxing tense areas such as shoulders and thighs. You should feel like you&rsquo;re making yourself &ldquo;soft&rdquo; all over before starting any exercise involving these areas; this will help prevent injury later on because we don&rsquo;t want anyone getting injured during childbirth either! 
&nbsp;

You should eat a variety of foods from all of the food groups. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are good sources of fibre. Fruits and vegetables also have vitamins and minerals that nourish your body. Good sources of protein include lean meats such as fish or poultry, beans, eggs, nuts, seeds and low-fat dairy products. Limit processed foods such as chips, crackers, cakes and cookies because they lack the nutrients you need to stay healthy during pregnancy. High-fat foods can cause weight gain during pregnancy which increases your risk for developing certain pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia (high blood pressure) or gestational diabetes (high blood sugar). 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Eat a <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/what-are-the-common-components-that-constitute-a-healthy-diet">healthy diet</a></li>
	<li>Drink plenty of water</li>
	<li>Sleep as much as you can</li>
	<li>Sleep in a comfortable position, ideally on your side with a pillow under your tummy and another one between your legs to help keep baby from pushing on your bowel (if you are feeding him or her)</li>
	<li>Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, which can cause contractions and make you feel jittery. Also avoid smoking because it restricts blood flow to the uterus and placenta, which could affect oxygen supply to the baby</li>
	<li>Avoid heavy lifting, working out too hard or going for long walks until after delivery because these things aren&rsquo;t good for either of you right now!</li>
	<li>Avoid too much stress &mdash; take some time each day just for yourself so that when the big day comes (and it will come) everything will go smoothly 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;While it&rsquo;s important to be prepared for childbirth and know the basics of what to expect, don&rsquo;t worry if you&rsquo;re not sure about all of these things. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable during and after birth. So, get as much rest as possible and make sure your doctor knows how well rested you are.

Iqra Mazhar

This article or video has been recorded by a subject / domain specialists with a proven track record of excellence in their area. 

Baby Loading

There&rsquo;s no doubt that pregnancy tests and ultrasounds are the only credible ways to determine whether or not you&#39;re pregnant. But urine or blood tests may give false positives and ultrasounds may take 17 days post ovulation to identify a healthy pregnancy.

&nbsp;

However, excited or anxious as you are at the mere idea of being pregnant, you&rsquo;re probably looking for additional indications and symptoms, too. A missed period (menses), smell sensitivity, weariness or fatigue, and of course, the infamous nausea and morning sickness all point towards pregnancy. In a recent study, 15.6% of participants even showed <a href="merisehat.pk/disease/anxiety">anxiety </a>symptoms during early pregnancy<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As new parents, you&rsquo;ll come across a lot of hearsay about the topic. You need to stop reading too much into signs and let&rsquo;s just keep the fiction separate from the facts to begin with.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Understanding The Early Pregnancy

Your first week of pregnancy is determined by the date of your last menstrual cycle. It may seem strange because technically you weren&#39;t even pregnant at that point of time.

&nbsp;

The date of your last menstruation would also determine the estimated delivery date. For this reason, the first few weeks of your 40-week pregnancy might be symptom-free. 
&nbsp;

If you are expecting, you may experience the following signs and symptoms in the first few weeks:

<ul>
	<li>Minimal cramps and spotting</li>
	<li>Missed period</li>
	<li>Fatigue and weariness&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Nausea</li>
	<li>Painful breasts&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Bloating</li>
	<li>Frequent urination</li>
	<li>Traveling sickness</li>
	<li>Fluctuations in the mood&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Fluctuations in body temperature&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Other indicators may include:

<ul>
	<li>Elevated blood pressure</li>
	<li>Severe exhaustion and heartburn&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Increased heartbeat</li>
	<li>Changes in the breast and nipple</li>
	<li>Bouts of acne</li>
	<li>Noticeable increase in weight</li>
	<li>Pregnancy glow 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>Implantation Bleeding&nbsp;</h5>

During the first 4 weeks, everything happens on a cellular level. The fertilized egg produces a blastocyst (a fluid-filled collection of cells) that will develop into the organs and body parts of the fetus.

&nbsp;

The blastocyst stays in the endometrium (the uterine lining) for about 10-14 days (week 4) following fertilization. This may result in implantation bleeding, which could be misinterpreted as a light period. This does not happen to everyone. If you experience it, you&rsquo;ll note that it coincides with the time you expect your period to start. 
&nbsp;

Here are a few indicators of implantation bleeding:

<ul>
	<li>Color</li>
</ul>

Each occurrence may be pink or light brown.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Bleeding</li>
</ul>

Implantation bleeding is typically a few drops of blood. It&#39;s frequently described as very light bleeding that never becomes a flow or requires the use of a pad or tampon.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Pain and other symptoms </li>
</ul>

The pain is usually milder than with regular menstrual cramps. It may be accompanied by nausea and frequent urination.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Duration</li>
</ul>

Implantation bleeding usually lasts less than 3 days and does not necessitate treatment. Occasionally, it will last only a few hours.

&nbsp;

NOTE: Although implantation bleeding is not usually a cause for concern, you should talk with a doctor if you experience symptoms such as: persistent bleeding, vaginal blood clots or bleeding that saturates a pad every 30 minutes.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>Missed Period&nbsp;</h5>

Your placenta begins synthesizing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) shortly after implantation. This hormone assists the body in maintaining pregnancy. It also instructs the ovaries to stop releasing mature eggs (ovum) once a month.

&nbsp;

You are likely to miss your periods starting from 4 weeks post fertilization. If you usually have an irregular period, you should get a pregnancy test to confirm. The majority of home tests are capable of detecting hCG levels in your urine as soon as 8 days following a missed period. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Raised Body Temperature&nbsp;</h5>

An elevated body temperature might also be an indicator. It is also possible that exercise and hot weather can also cause your core temperature to rise more easily. Take precaution and drink plenty of liquids to keep yourself hydrated and maintain your body temperature. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Fatigue&nbsp;</h5>

Throughout pregnancy, you may experience fatigue and weariness at any stage, but it&rsquo;s a typical sign of early pregnancy. This is because your progesterone levels rise, which makes you feel drowsy.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>Increased Heart Rate&nbsp;</h5>

During weeks 8-10, your heart will beat harder and more frequently. Palpitations and arrhythmias are common during pregnancy due to hormones. According to a 2016 study review, blood flow increases by 30-50% during pregnancy. This puts more strain on your heart<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

&nbsp;

If it was a planned pregnancy, you may have discussed any underlying cardiac problems with your medical team prior to it, right? If not, now is the time to talk about any conditions or treatment that may be required. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Early Changes To Breasts: Tenderness and&nbsp; Swelling&nbsp;</h5>

Breast modifications are possible between weeks 4 and 6. Hormone fluctuations are likely to cause sensitive and sore breasts, which will likely subside within a few weeks as your body adjusts to the hormones.

&nbsp;

Changes in the nipple and breast are also possible around week 11. Hormones continue to cause breast growth. The areola may darken and get bigger. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Changes in Mood&nbsp;</h5>

During pregnancy, your estrogen and progesterone levels are elevated. This increase may affect your mood, making you more emotional or reactive than usual. Mood swings are frequent during pregnancy and you&rsquo;ll often feel sadness or despair, irritation, anxiety, and euphoria.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h5>Frequent Urination &amp; Incontinence&nbsp;</h5>

The amount of blood in the body increases during pregnancy. As a result, your kidneys process more fluid than usual, resulting in extra fluid in your bladder.

&nbsp;

Besides, hormones influence bladder health as well. You may find yourself racing to the restroom more often or accidentally leaking during pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Bloating &amp; Constipation&nbsp;</h5>

Comparable to the signs of a menstrual period, bloating is a possibility during early pregnancy. This could be related to hormonal changes, which can also cause your digestive system to slow down. As a result, you may feel constipated and obstructed. Constipation can also promote abdominal bloating. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Morning Sickness, Nausea, &amp; Maybe Vomiting&nbsp;</h5>

Nausea and morning sickness commonly appear between weeks 4 and 6, peaking around week 9. Although it is referred to as morning sickness, it may occur at any time of day or night. The exact cause of nausea and morning sickness is uncertain; however, it is believed that hormones may play a role.

&nbsp;

Many women have mild to severe morning sickness throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. So, you should be mentally prepared for it to get more acute near the end of the first trimester. But, don&rsquo;t worry; it usually subsides as you reach the second trimester. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Smell Sensitivity &amp; Food Intolerance&nbsp;</h5>

Smell sensitivity is a common early pregnancy symptom that is primarily self-reported and has minimal scientific support. However, it may be notable because smell sensitivity triggers nausea and vomiting. It may also induce a severe intolerance to particular meals. According to 2017 research, women have an enhanced or diminished sense of smell during pregnancy<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Smell sensitivity is very common during the first and third trimesters. Only rarely will you feel as if your sense of smell has diminished; otherwise, it will be sharper and more pronounced throughout the pregnancy. You may find some scents less appealing even though they had never bothered you in the past.

&nbsp;

The good news is that the sense of smell returns to normal within 6-12 weeks after delivery. 
&nbsp;

Weight gain is a normal phenomenon near the end of the first trimester. You may gain between 1 and 4 pounds in the first several months. Calorie guidelines for early pregnancy remain similar to your regular diet, but will increase as the pregnancy advances. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Pregnancy weight is frequently visible in the following areas in the latter stages:</li>
	<li>Breasts (approximately 1-3 pounds)&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Uterus (approximately 2 pounds)&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Placenta (approximately 1.5 pounds)</li>
	<li>The amniotic fluid (approximately 2 pounds)</li>
	<li>Increased blood and fluid volume (approximately 5-7 pounds)</li>
	<li>Fat (approximately 6- 8 pounds) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5>Heartburn&nbsp;</h5>

Hormones can relax the valve that connects your stomach and esophagus. This permits stomach acid to escape, resulting in heartburn. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Pregnancy Skin: Glow OR Acne&nbsp;</h5>

Some individuals may begin to say that you have the &quot;pregnancy glow.&quot; It&rsquo;s the combination of an increased volume of blood and elevated hormone. Your skin appears flushed and glossy due to the increased activity of your body&#39;s oil glands. Be prepared; there&rsquo;s also the possibility of acne.

&nbsp;

<h5>Backache</h5>

More than one-third of pregnant women experience back pain. This is frequently related to ligament relaxation and a shift in posture caused by the growing pregnancy.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Wearing flat-heeled shoes, utilizing seats with good back support, avoiding carrying heavy objects, and practicing light exercise can all help prevent back pain during pregnancy. Similarly, exercising in water, physiotherapy, and acupuncture can all help reduce back pain during pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

Pregnancy tests detect a specific level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine. You can take a pregnancy test to check whether or not you are pregnant as soon as you miss your period. You get the most reliable results if you take it at least 1 week after you&#39;ve missed your period.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

While some tests claim to provide accurate results prior to a missed period, taking a test too soon can result in a false negative (the test says you&#39;re not pregnant, but you are).

&nbsp;

Additionally, your healthcare professional can take a blood sample to screen for pregnancy as early as 1 week before a missing period. 
&nbsp;

<h5>Tips</h5>

<ul>
	<li>
	If you obtain a negative result on a home pregnancy test, then it&rsquo;s recommended that you take another one 7 days later to double-check.
	</li>
	<li>Home pregnancy tests are 97% more accurate when used correctly at the right time, according to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development in 2017<a href="#reference">4</a>. Home pregnancy tests vary in accuracy. Choose one that is known to be accurate.</li>
	<li>A blood test can typically detect pregnancy much earlier, but it must be performed in a medical professional&#39;s office or clinical setting.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

During early pregnancy, your body will undergo major changes. You may notice symptoms like nausea, breast discomfort, and of course, the missed period. If you suspect you&#39;re pregnant, a home pregnancy test is a good first step to take. These tests are typically available without a prescription at pharmacies and other shops.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

If you get a positive result, make an appointment with a doctor. They will examine you and run more tests to confirm your pregnancy. You can then begin a prenatal regimen to protect your and your fetus&#39; health. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>During early pregnancy, your body will undergo major changes.</li>
	<li>Missed periods, nausea, throwing up, breast modifications, exhaustion, fatigue, and frequent urination are all symptoms of a pregnancy.</li>
	<li>If you suspect you&#39;re pregnant, a home pregnancy test is a good first step to take.</li>
	<li>If you get a positive result, make an appointment with a doctor.</li>
	<li>Once your pregnancy is confirmed , your healthcare professional will guide you on the appropriate prenatal regimen.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

[1] Rubertsson C, Hellström J, Cross M, Sydsjö G. Anxiety in early pregnancy: prevalence and contributing factors. Arch Womens Ment Health. 2014;17(3):221–8.

[2] Soma-Pillay P, Nelson-Piercy C, Tolppanen H, Mebazaa A. Physiological changes in pregnancy: review articles. Cardiovasc J Afr. 2016;27(2):89–94.

[3] Dikici O, Muluk NB, \cSahin E, Altintoprak N. Effects of pregnancy on olfaction. ENT Updat. 2017;7(2):104–7.

[4] PAGE JP. How Do I Know If I’m Pregnant. JAMA. 2001;286(14).

Neelam Asad

Are You Really Eating For Two When You’re Pregnant?

You&rsquo;re pregnant! Congratulations! And now, naturally, there must be a lot of questions in your mind about what&#39;s going to happen to your body and how it&rsquo;s going to change.&nbsp;

It&rsquo;s an experience unique to each woman. But the statement should not make you throw caution to the wind. From what the doctors say to what&rsquo;s been tried and tested by pregnant women around the world, there&rsquo;s some good, genuine advice to help you. Especially, the general precautions related to your diet <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/lets-talk-about-sex-during-pregnancy">during pregnancy</a> that you should adhere to religiously.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So, let&rsquo;s dig in! 
&nbsp;

Diet during Pregnency

You probably know how it feels when you&rsquo;re &ldquo;eating for two&rdquo;, instead of one.&nbsp;

To begin with, during your pregnancy, you only need about 300 extra calories per day.

There is a good chance that you have been told that you need to eat for two. Because of this advice, some expectant mothers worry about whether they have to eat twice as much as they normally would.

The truth is that while your body does require 300 extra calories per day during pregnancy, the equivalent of a slice of bread or a small apple, you should still be eating balanced meals like fruits, vegetables and whole grains along with lean protein sources like chicken or fish.&nbsp;

Staying hydrated is also important. A majority of doctors recommend drinking at least eight glasses (64 ounces) of water per day. 
&nbsp;

This is your time to eat for one.

This can be a challenging concept to grasp if you&rsquo;re used to going all out when it comes to food. Especially, if you&rsquo;re pregnant with your second or third child. It&rsquo;s important to remember that while your body is making a lot of changes during this time, it is still adapting to its new role and not yet fully prepared for what&rsquo;s ahead.

The best thing you can do right now is follow these guidelines:

<ul>
	<li>Eat healthy food. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables over processed ones whenever possible.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>If they are not organic, wash them thoroughly with soap and water before eating them raw (or cook them). Some foods are more likely than others to contain harmful bacteria like listeria. These include unpasteurised milk products (raw milk), undercooked chicken and meat products as well as raw shellfish such as oysters and mussels.</li>
	<li>Eat a variety of foods from each food group every day. Healthy eating during pregnancy is about getting the right amount of nutrients in the right balance for you and your baby</li>
	<li>Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables (at least five servings per day)</li>
	<li>Choose whole grains like brown rice, oats and whole wheat bread, instead of refined grains such as white rice and white bread. Whole grains provide fibre which supports colon health and regular bowel movements so say bye-bye to constipation. Some examples include barley, quinoa, bulgur (cracked wheat), oats, and popcorn without butter added.</li>
	<li>If you have any concerns about consuming gluten during pregnancy, contact your healthcare provider first before making changes to the food choices that you normally make at home. They may be able to recommend alternatives that in their opinion would work better with your unique situation.</li>
	<li>Eat lean meat, poultry fish eggs at least two times per week. This means trimming excess fat from meats before cooking them as well as choosing low-fat options like ground turkey breast instead of ground beef. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

If you&rsquo;re pregnant, you probably know that there&rsquo;s a difference between your first and third trimester cravings. Most women experience nausea in the first trimester (which is why it&rsquo;s called morning sickness), but by the second or third trimesters many cravings come along. These are often specific foods that provide nutrients like iron and protein.&nbsp;

By this point in the pregnancy, some women may have an aversion to certain foods they once loved, especially if they&rsquo;re in their second or third trimester. But others continue to eat pretty much anything they want throughout their pregnancies.

The first trimester is also when doctors generally recommend eating for one. Many women get morning sickness early on during this time and aren&rsquo;t able to keep much food down at all! 
&nbsp;

It&rsquo;s important not to deprive yourself of nutrition during this time because not eating enough could lead to low blood sugar levels that affect your baby as well as risk complications like preterm labour later on in pregnancy

In fact, the physical stress on your body during pregnancy could be as great as or greater than that experienced during any other time in your life. This is because you are making more blood than normal.

Your blood volume increases by 60-80 percent. This means that you need to make more oxygen-carrying red blood cells and platelets (cells in the blood that help with clotting) during pregnancy. Your heart has to work harder to pump this extra volume around your body and through the placenta, which carries oxygen and nutrients from mother to fetus through their bloodstreams an amazing feat of engineering! That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s called &ldquo;double trouble&rdquo;. 
&nbsp;

We&rsquo;re not saying that supplements are a panacea, but they could be an important part of a well-rounded pregnancy diet.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Be sure to talk to your doctor about supplements before taking any.</li>
	<li>Supplements are most effective and safest when they&rsquo;re taken in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

If you follow these guidelines, you&rsquo;ll be on your way toward having the healthiest baby possible.

&nbsp;

Fast food is not healthy, and it&rsquo;s certainly not good for your developing baby. You&rsquo;ll be consuming something that&rsquo;s high in calories and low in nutrition. It tends to be fried, over-processed, or processed with artificial ingredients.&nbsp;

A diet rich in fast food leads to weight gain and increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke and certain cancers.

To be fair, though, the occasional burger or burrito wouldn&rsquo;t harm you or your baby. However, that won&rsquo;t be the case if all you eat most days is a burger or burrito. So, if you think about it, an eating a salad occasionally, like once a week, won&#39;t hurt either! 
&nbsp;

Eating well is the key to good health and a long life. If you&rsquo;re eating for two, remember that it doesn&rsquo;t mean eating twice as much food. In fact, it means eating only about 300 extra calories each day.&nbsp;

Ismail Munir

Let's Talk About Sex During Pregnancy

One of the most pressing questions by couples who are expecting is, if they can have sex during pregnancy.There's no denying that pregnancy is an overwhelming period for both partners as they anticipate parenthood. For a woman, the process is obviously more challenging - her entire body is changing significantly. And even though nurturing her baby in womb would be nothing less than sheer joy, yet it cannot be denied that with all the changes happening internally and externally, a woman may experience mood swings and changes in sex drive.&nbsp;One of the most pressing questions by couples who are expecting is, if they can have sex during pregnancy. A plethora of myths surround the topic, exploiting the concern parents-to-be have for their baby, especially if it is the first pregnancy. They would want to avoid it, but with all the surging hormones, that’s not the ideal solution, is it? So, let’s see what can be done to make the whole process enjoyable, whether sex during pregnancy is possible, when it should be avoided, and what happens after delivery.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Understanding benefits of sex in pregnancy

Well, no, there is no truth to the statement. Sex is not unsafe for the baby if you and your partner have a healthy pregnancy. In fact, it is believed that sex supports and improves pregnancy.&nbsp; Your baby is well protected by the thick muscles of the uterus and is cushioned by the amniotic sac (a fluid filled cavity that surrounds the baby) so there is no potential risk to the baby during intercourse. Moreover, the cervix has a thick mucus plug and it acts as a barrier between the vagina and uterus so there's no way that the baby can get hurt or feel the penetrations<a href="#reference" target="_blank">1</a>.Many people are of the notion that sex during pregnancy induces preterm labor that results in premature birth or baby being delivered before the expected due date (before 37 weeks of gestation). However, studies show no evidence of such a relation and it is concluded that vaginal sex doesn't put the women and baby at risk of premature labor and birth<a href="#reference">1</a>.As women reach the end of their pregnancy, they might experience contractions due to orgasm or sexual penetration, which are referred to as Braxton Hicks contractions. These are mild contractions and are normal in women nearing the due date and it shouldn't arouse suspicion or concern<a href="#reference" target="_blank"> 1</a>.<div> </div>

Pregnancy can effect the sex drive of people in different ways. Some women feel that their sexual drive is fading away while others reach new heights of sexual arousal. As a woman transitions from first trimester to second and then to third, her desire for sex keeps on changing.&nbsp; During the first trimester, a woman is adjusting to the new state of her body. There are the sudden mood changes, there is with frequent nausea and vomiting, and let’s not forget the numerous trips to the loo to urinate. Hence, it’s not surprising that the mom-to-be whether out of frustration or lack of energy has zero desire to indulge in any sexual activity.&nbsp;But that’s going to change. And sooner than you think.&nbsp;The second trimester begins and along with it comes a surge in their sexual desire. The nauseous state of the first trimester has subsided. Also, there’s a spike in the level of certain hormones. Additionally, it is said that blood flow in the body increases by 40% during pregnancy and that this flow is greater in the genitals, which translates into better orgasms<a href="#reference">2</a>. Circumstances favoring, now is the time to benefit from sex during pregnancy. It’s ideal because the body isn't too big yet (as it would likely be in the third trimester) so both partners can be comfortable making love.Speaking of the third trimester, don’t be worried if the sexual drive takes a dip. It happens usually because of anxiety surrounding the impending parenthood. Besides, the baby bump is increasing and that makes many women uncomfortable, too and they consciously avoid getting involved in sex at this stage.&nbsp;

Communication between both partners is important during pregnancy. Tell your partner how you feel about yourself and if you are comfortable with sex during pregnancy.&nbsp; It is best to avoid lying flat during intercourse after the 4th month of pregnancy has passed. It exerts great pressure on the vessels that are taking blood to and from the heart and if these vessels get compressed while you’re lying, the blood supply to the baby might be compromised<a href="#reference">3</a>.This is not to discourage you! On the contrary, you can try new positions that work for both of you. Engage in activities that kindle intimacy such as hugging, cuddling, and kissing.&nbsp;<div> </div>

Pregnancy is an emotionally overwhelming period for both partners. Given that the desire for intercourse and the need for affection also varies for both partners throughout the duration of pregnancy, it is best to indulge in intimacy in ways and at times which works for both partners. Some benefits of sex during pregnancy are listed below:&nbsp;

1. Strengthens The Relationship&nbsp;

According to Terry Hoffman, an Ob-gyn at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, men often feel neglected and ignored during pregnancy since all the attention of their partner is directed towards the baby. Hence it is believed that pregnancy sex brings both partners closer and strengthens the relationship<a href="#reference">2</a>.&nbsp;

2. Leads To Better Orgasms

Another benefit that partners experience is better orgasms during pregnancy. This is particularly true for women who feel easily aroused with increased blood flow in the labia and vagina during pregnancy<a href="#reference">1</a>.&nbsp;

3. Improves Fitness And Immunity&nbsp;

Sex helps in burning calories and thus keeps partners fit. Furthermore, sex improves the <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/how-an-over-prescription-of-antibiotics-affects-your-immune-system">immune system</a>. A study conducted in 2004 revealed that sex increases the level of IgA (a protein created by the body to prevent infections) and protects the individuals from cold and other common infections<a href="#reference">1</a>.

4. Increases Happiness&nbsp;

Lastly, orgasm releases endorphins, which are referred to as happiness hormones, and helps the mother and baby feel happy and relaxed<a href="#reference">1</a>.&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Your healthcare provider would advise you against sex if there are certain conditions in your current pregnancy or even if you have had them in previous ones. The only reason is because sex might aggravate those conditions and that would only increase the risk of complications such as miscarriage or preterm labor.&nbsp; You should not have during pregnancy if you have:<ul><li>Problems with the cervix, which increases the chances of having a miscarriage or early labor&nbsp;</li><li>A risk of miscarriage<a href="#reference">3</a></li><li>Multiple pregnancies with either twins, triplets, or multiples<a href="#reference">4</a></li><li>A low-lying placenta that covers the cervix either partially or fully, a condition called placenta previa<a href="#reference">4</a></li><li>A condition called cervical incompetence where the cervix progresses to labor prematurely&nbsp;</li><li>A history of premature labor&nbsp;</li><li>Experienced unexplained vaginal blood loss</li><li>Complications or high-risk pregnancies where the amniotic fluid leaks or the waters have broken. These conditions increase the risk of infection, hence making sex during pregnancy a no-go area.</li></ul>Seek Help Immediately!&nbsp;Call your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following while having sex in pregnancy<a href="#reference">3</a>.<ul><li>Menstrual-like bleeding</li><li>Pain and discomfort&nbsp;</li><li>Fluid or discharge&nbsp;</li><li>Constant contractions&nbsp;</li></ul><div> </div>

The 6 weeks following the delivery of the baby are known as the postpartum period. This is the time when partners are settling in as parents and with many sleepless nights and tiring days while taking care of the baby, sex is usually the last thing on their mind.&nbsp; For a woman, their body has not stopped changing. It has experienced a lot and is continuing to adjust to this new role during the recovery period. For starters, the episiotomy incision (scar during vaginal birth) or cesarean scar (through C-section) during the birth of the baby takes time to heal. Then, the postpartum bleeding takes 4-6 weeks to resolve. Additionally, fatigue associated with taking care of the baby and sore breasts due to breastfeeding are some of the other factors that contribute to low sex drive in women after birth<a href="#reference">3</a>.Moreover, women may have postpartum blues and might be depressed for a while. Consequently, they might not feel like engaging in activities that previously caused pleasure.&nbsp;It has been proven by research that it takes time for couples to resume sexual activities after giving birth to a baby. Swedish research conducted on 820 first-time parents showed that 6 months following the birth of their first child, the couples could only manage to have sex once or twice in a month<a href="#reference">2</a>.<div> </div>

Pregnancy is undoubtedly a very emotionally demanding phase and both partners may experience different levels of sex drives throughout the period. The change in desire is notably more significant in women than men due to changes in hormone levels, body shape, and increased blood flow in their body. Their libido fluctuates throughout the 3 trimesters, reaching its peak in the second trimester.&nbsp; The myth that sex during pregnancy results in miscarriages and promotes preterm labor and birth has no scientific evidence and, hence, is considered false. On the contrary, several benefits are attributed to having sex during pregnancy including but not limited to the facts that it brings the couples together and keeps them bonded in this very special phase of their life.&nbsp;<div> </div>

Many couples are puzzled about having or not having sex during pregnancy.&nbsp; <ul><li>However, it is completely safe to have sex during pregnancy as it doesn’t harm the baby.</li><li>Pregnancy sex is not associated with miscarriages or increased risk of preterm labor and birth.</li><li>Sex drive may vary in women across the three trimesters with the highest drive being in the second trimester.</li><li>Sex during pregnancy has many benefits such as an increase in intimacy between partner, improved health and immunity, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>There are certain conditions in which sex is not allowed during pregnancy. A woman who is at risk of having miscarriages or preterm birth is advised against sex during pregnancy.&nbsp;</li><li>Many partners find it cumbersome to resume sex immediately after giving birth due to the exhaustion that comes with parenting and taking care of their baby.&nbsp;</li></ul><div> </div>

Cadman B. Sex during pregnancy: Safety tips, positions, effects, and information. Medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321648. Published 2022. Accessed August 18, 2022.

Dworkin-McDaniel N. Sex During Pregnancy: What Every Pregnant Person Should Know. Parents. https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-life/sex-relationship/pregnancy-sex-guide/. Published 2022. Accessed August 18, 2022.

Taylor R. Sex During and After Pregnancy. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/sex-and-pregnancy. Published 2022. Accessed August 18, 2022.

Sex in pregnancy. nhs.uk. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/sex/. Published 2022. Accessed August 18, 2022.

Nawal Adnan

Your baby is always growing and developing from conception through childbirth. To expecting mothers, it can be the most wondrous time. Every time you feel those tiny little kicks, there&rsquo;s a little bit of marvel, and a whole lot of curiosity of what must be going inside your womb. Is the baby alright? Do they feel safe, warm, and oh-so-loved because that&rsquo;s what you want their very first moments of life to be.

Curious to know how your little one is grozing? Read on to understand your little one&rsquo;s development in each month. 
&nbsp;

You are highly fertile on days when you are ovulating. This means that 2 weeks after your menses, your ovary will release the egg(s) in the fallopian tube. If the egg is fertilised by the sperm while it&#39;s in the fallopian tube, you&rsquo;ll conceive. 
&nbsp;

At this point, though, it&rsquo;ll only be a single cell containing your baby&rsquo;s unique DNA. However, this is soon followed by a rapid proliferation of cells and a cluster of around 32-64 cells will leave the fallopian tube, travelling to the uterus where a bedding for your foetus has already been prepared.

It&#39;s difficult to determine the exact date of conception, however, it&rsquo;s possible to get a rough estimate. Basically, your gynae will consider the first day of your last menstrual period as the starting time of your 40 weeks of pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

Understanding Fetal Development during Pregnancy

If you notice any of the symptoms of pregnancy, you should first self-evaluate yourself by conducting a home pregnancy test. One of the hormones called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) should be present in your blood right after you conceive. The placenta, which is the source of food for your developing foetus, is responsible for the high number of hCG present in your bloodstream. It is easily detected by home tests. So, if you get a positive result from the pregnancy strip test, it&rsquo;s your cue to consult your gynaecologist.

Other symptoms that normally indicate pregnancy include a missed period, tender breasts, and spotting or light bleeding at the time of implantation. Sometimes, a missed period is not the most reliable way since many women who do not get regular periods may not treat it as anything extraordinary.

 
From conception till labour, don&rsquo;t be afraid or nervous about your routine check-ups with the gynae. These visits are necessary for your and your baby&rsquo;s health. Think of it this way: you get to meet your baby while it&rsquo;s still inside you! 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Your baby&#39;s heartbeat may be detected around the 5-6 week mark.</li>
	<li>They will start developing normal sleep and wake cycles around 27 weeks.</li>
	<li>They will be physically developed by 39 weeks. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Just like you can&rsquo;t wait to hold your baby in your arms, they can&rsquo;t wait to meet you, too. But, it&rsquo;s a whole process to ensure the baby grows fully and you get to deliver it safely. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Zygote: When the egg is first fertilised by a sperm, the fertilised egg becomes a zygote, which is a single cell carrying genes from both the parents.</li>
	<li>Blastocyst: The zygote continues to divide while travelling down the fallopian tube to the uterus (3-5 days after fertilisation) and eventually forms a blastocyst, a group of cells turning into a hollow sphere nearly 5-6 days after fertilisation. It&rsquo;s also referred to as the early stage of an embryo.</li>
	<li>Embryo: The blastocyst remains in the uterus for several days. Then, it implants in the endometrium where it continues to grow. Approximately, 10-12 days after fertilisation, it develops into an embryo.</li>
	<li>Foetus: Finally, about 9 weeks after implantation, you get a foetus.</li>
	<li>Baby/Newborn: It takes around 40 weeks (3 trimesters) for the baby to develop completely and be ready for birth. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/the-virtual-healthcare-revolution-bridging-gaps-with-online-doctor-consultations">Healthcare </a>providers recommend prenatal vitamins, mainly folic acid throughout pregnancy. It&rsquo;s important to consume at least 400 mcg of folic acid per day to reduce the foetus&#39; risk of developing neural tube defects<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
&nbsp;

The sperm fertilises the egg in your fallopian tube, leading to the formation of blastocyst. Later, an embryo forms and it eventually gets implanted in your uterus. 
&nbsp;

Checking yourself out in the mirror, you may not &ldquo;look&rdquo; like you&rsquo;re pregnant. It&rsquo;s the same ol&rsquo; body that you&rsquo;re so used to. Or, is it? Because that&rsquo;s just the surface and, if you&rsquo;ve officially conceived, the tiny cluster of cells in your uterus is growing at a crazy speed.

Believe it or not, your body is undergoing significant changes at this time to make room for your baby. As a result, you can experience morning sickness, fatigue, swollen breasts, and mood swings. (Remember, not all women experience these early PMS-like symptoms, so don&rsquo;t worry if you&rsquo;re not feeling a thing) 
&nbsp;

Your body boosts its blood supply to provide oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby, your heart rate rises, and your uterus gets ready to assist the growth of the placenta and the foetus. 
&nbsp;

4-6 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>At this time, your foetus is as tiny as a poppy seed or a pea.</li>
	<li>It is growing the structures that will eventually shape the face and neck.</li>
	<li>The heart, blood vessels, lungs, liver, and stomach are beginning to develop.</li>
	<li>A home pregnancy test can show positive results.</li>
</ul>

 
8-9 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>Your foetus is now about the size of a raspberry or a medium green olive that&rsquo;s almost 1-inch big.</li>
	<li>The tip of the nose as well as eyelids and ears are starting to develop.</li>
	<li>Fingers and toes begin to form, and are clearly distinct from the previously webbed hands and feet.</li>
</ul>

 
12 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>This week, your foetus is as big as a lime that&rsquo;s about 5-6 cm.</li>
	<li>Its heartbeat is now audible with a special instrument.</li>
	<li>All the vital organs form by the end of this stage. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

This stage of pregnancy is frequently regarded as the most enjoyable. By this point, any morning sickness and other symptoms of early pregnancy should have subsided. Beware; you&rsquo;ll soon experience heartburn and indigestion, occasional headaches, varicose veins, and pregnancy brain.

Your gynae can suggest some screening tests. Make sure to discuss with your doctor any medical history, family history, or genetic concerns that can put you or your baby at threat. An anatomy ultrasound is usually conducted between weeks 18 and 22, which will also reveal the gender of your baby. 
&nbsp;

13-15 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>Your foetus is now the size of an orange or a pear.</li>
	<li>It is now able to blink its eyes.</li>
	<li>The heart and blood vessels have developed completely.</li>
	<li>The sex organs start to develop. Boy or girl, you can ask your gynae if you want to have a gender reveal before birth.</li>
	<li>And, like a soft peach, there&rsquo;s fuzz (lanugo) covering the head, eyebrows, and the whole body.</li>
	<li>The foetus starts to look more like a baby and there&rsquo;s some slight movements.</li>
</ul>

 
16-19 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>Your foetus is the size of an avocado now.</li>
	<li>The foetus is now able to suck a thumb, make faces, yawn, and stretch.</li>
	<li>It fully develops the ability to hear in the womb.</li>
	<li>Those little fingers and toes have now got fingerprints.</li>
	<li>The heart rate is 140-150 beats per minute.</li>
	<li>Its nervous system is maturing.</li>
	<li>Also, a protective covering called vernix caseosa forms over your foetus&rsquo; skin to protect it from being wrinkled at birth.</li>
</ul>

 
20-23 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>Your foetus is now the size of a large banana.</li>
	<li>There&rsquo;ll be lots of movement from turning and twisting to even somersaults.</li>
	<li>Its taste buds develop as it starts swallowing a bit of amniotic fluid every day.</li>
	<li>At 22 weeks, the foetus weighs nearly a pound. Its senses grow sharper with each passing day, too.</li>
	<li>It&rsquo;s time for your anatomy or anomaly scan. Your gynae would have prepared you regarding it. It&rsquo;s basically an examination of the placenta to ensure that it is healthy and correctly connected, and that the baby is growing appropriately. On the ultrasound, you will be able to observe the baby&#39;s heartbeat and movement of its torso, arms, and legs. You will be able to discuss the gender of your baby with the doctor.</li>
</ul>

 
24-27 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>The size of your foetus is about an ear of corn or as big as a cabbage.</li>
	<li>The skin of the foetus is pink.</li>
	<li>At this time, the foetus can now sense being upside down in the womb as the inner ear is fully developed.</li>
	<li>It responds to the sound by moving or through an increase in pulse rate.</li>
	<li>Its hiccups can now be felt by the mother.</li>
	<li>Eyes begin to open.</li>
	<li>The lungs have now developed enough that should the mother-to-be deliver at this stage, the baby will be able to survive with specialist care in a neonatal unit. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Only 2 months left to go! Can you believe it? Now, each week&rsquo;s development will help the foetus prepare for birth. The foetus acquires weight at a super-fast rate; gaining this body fat will be beneficial after delivery.

Note: Despite the fact that popular culture only recognises 9 months of pregnancy, you can be pregnant for 10 months. The average full-term pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, which may extend into the 10th month. It&#39;s also easy to miss your due date by a week or two and deliver in 41 or 42 weeks<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
&nbsp;

28-31 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>Your foetus is as big as a head of lettuce or coconut that weighs 1-1.5 kg.</li>
	<li>It begins to experience REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which means it has started to dream and smile while sleeping.</li>
	<li>The fingernails are growing.</li>
	<li>Lanugo is starting to disappear.</li>
	<li>The brain has more convulsions to be able to hold more brain cells.</li>
	<li>The developing foetus keeps growing and creating body fat reserves.</li>
	<li>Another major development that occurs is how bone marrow overtakes spleen and tissue groups in the production of red blood cells.</li>
	<li>Brain connections are developing rapidly.</li>
	<li>Your foetus now settles into the right position for birth.</li>
</ul>

 
32-35 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>Now, the foetus has reached the size of a bunch of celery or pineapple, that&rsquo;s almost 41-46 cm big.</li>
	<li>All major organs are developed, except the lungs.</li>
	<li>Your little one is busy practising real-life skills, including sucking, breathing, and swallowing.</li>
</ul>

Note: A few drops of a yellowish fluid will start to leak from your breast, indicating that your breast is ready to produce milk to meet your baby&rsquo;s needs after birth.

 
36-39 Weeks

<ul>
	<li>Your foetus is like a bunch of kale or mini watermelon, 46-53cm.</li>
	<li>Its pink-tinted skin is now white.</li>
	<li>The brain of the baby is growing fast; its hearing is extra sharp and the lungs are completely developed.</li>
	<li>The bones and cartilage are still soft to ensure smooth delivery; they will harden during the first few years after birth.</li>
	<li>While blood circulation and immune system are almost perfectly developed, the digestive system will take some time after birth to fully mature.</li>
	<li>The position of the baby is upside down, at this stage.</li>
	<li>It&#39;s reached the birthweight, i.e., it weighs between 6 and 9 pounds, and is almost ready to pop.</li>
</ul>

 
The final few weeks of pregnancy are classified as follows<a href="#accordion">[3][4]</a>:

<ul>
	<li>Early Term: 37-38 weeks</li>
	<li>Full Term: 39-40 weeks</li>
	<li>Late Term: 41-42 weeks</li>
	<li>Post Term: 42 weeks and on 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Regular prenatal care, like taking vitamins, visiting doctor&rsquo;s appointments and having all suggested testing is essential throughout each trimester. A gynae can verify that your foetus is developing normally and that your health is also not being side-lined throughout your pregnancy. They can also provide advice and proper resources for assistance.

What happens before childbirth is uncertain and it&#39;s ok to feel apprehensive. But you need to keep in mind that you&#39;re doing everything you can to give your baby a safe and nurturing environment, and it will be an amazing experience to see your child for the first time. 
&nbsp;

Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>Women are highly fertile days when they are ovulating, i.e., 2 weeks after the menstruation when the ovary releases the egg in the fallopian tube. If the egg is fertilised by the sperm while it&#39;s in the fallopian tube, it results in conception or fertilisation.</li>
	<li>It&#39;s very difficult to determine the day of conception; however, practitioners usually calculate it by referring to the first day of the last menstrual period as a starting point of the 40 weeks of pregnancy.</li>
	<li>Pregnancy can be confirmed through home kits that measure the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone in the blood.</li>
	<li>Other usual signs of pregnancy include missing a period, tender breasts, and a little bleeding or spotting.</li>
	<li>Development of a baby begins from the time it&rsquo;s a blastocyst. It then matures into an embryo and finally a foetus. It takes around 39-40 weeks, or 3 trimesters, for the baby to develop completely. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>